Fun, simple, and powerful. Starting at birth.
The Basics movement aims to help every family help every child reach their full potential.
What Are The Basics Principles?
Science shows that 80% of brain growth happens by the age of three! Beginning from birth, young brains develop like little muscles, getting bigger and stronger the more you and your family interact with your child. The Basics Principles are five fun, simple, and powerful ways to help all our children aged 0-3 grow to be happy and smart.
Fun, Simple & Powerful
The Five Principles
Do all five principles every day to help your child become the amazing person you know they can be.
Maximize Love, Manage Stress
Babies and toddlers thrive when their world feels loving, safe, and predictable. Respond with smiles, words, and touch to help them see, hear, and feel your love. You will help them develop a sense of security and self-control.
Talk, Sing & Point
Babies learn language from the moment they are born. Respond to their sounds, and later, their words. Connect with eye contact and a loving tone of voice, while pointing to help them know what you are talking about.
Count, Group & Compare
Every child’s brain is wired for math. Talk about numbers, shapes, patterns, and comparisons as you go about your routines together. Watch your child learn to love math.
Explore Through Movement & Play
Babies are like scientists who love making discoveries. Watch to see what interests your child, then encourage their curiosity and help them learn when they play and explore.
Read and Discuss Stories
Reading turns kids into confident thinkers. Make books a regular part of your relationship from the very beginning. With infants, point at the pictures and speak with excitement. With toddlers, just make it fun.
What If I’m Not a Parent?
You still care about children! Learn about The Basics principles. Encourage parents and caregivers to
make sure their children experience all five with everyone who cares for them.
The Basics
Resource Links
Explore The Basics and find current ideas and activities for learning and growing with your child, starting at birth.
